Category Archives: Job Advertisements Archive

Applications are invited for a postdoctoral position in the eXtreme Astrophysics group of Prof. Samar Safi-Harb in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg, Canada. As part of expanding the group’s research area into multi-messenger astrophysics, supported by the Canada Research Chairs program, the successful candidate will work on astrophysical studies of Compact Objects (compact objects mergers, neutron stars/magnetars, black holes) and/or associated environments (kilonova remnants, supernova remnants, pulsar wind nebulae), with focus on their multi-messenger science.

Over the next several years, advancements in sensitivity and detector development for both High-Energy and Gravitational Wave (GW) observatories will revolutionize our understanding of some of the most extreme events in the Universe. In particular, the upcoming Fourth Observing Run (O4) of the LIGO-Virgo-KAGRA collaborations, expected to start in Spring 2023, will accelerate the growth of the multi-messenger astrophysics field, and lead to the discovery of new GW events to be followed up across the electromagnetic spectrum and with other messengers. The successful applicant will contribute to one or more of the following projects, depending on their interest and expertise: data analysis and interpretation of new GW transient events, targeted searches of continuous GW from known pulsars, directed searches of continuous GW waves from compact objects in supernova remnants and pulsar wind nebulae, follow-up and analysis of electromagnetic counterparts to GW events. Other projects that would align with multi-messenger studies of extreme astrophysical events can be proposed. The applicant will be given opportunities to (co-)supervise students, collaborate with researchers nationally and internationally, and contribute to outreach and Equity, Diversity and Inclusion activities at the University.

Applicants are required to have their PhD by the time they start their position, and preference will be given to candidates within three years of their PhD (official leaves not counted towards that timeframe). Applicants who are experienced with compact objects and gravitational wave (GW) astrophysics, GW data analysis, and/or follow up of electromagnetic counterparts of GW sources are strongly encouraged to apply and will be given preference. Knowledge of machine learning methods, Bayesian analysis, or surveys’ cross-matching will be an asset. This position will be full-time employment at the University of Manitoba with a negotiable starting date, ideally in May 2023, or soon after for a period of two years. A third year is possible subject to funding and performance.

The eXtreme astrophysics group of Prof. Safi-Harb collaborates with researchers nationally and internationally on multi-wavelength studies of high-energy astrophysical objects and phenomena; and is actively involved in the planning of future missions, particularly in the high-energy domain. Research in Astrophysics at the U. of Manitoba is enabled by observations conducted with state-of-the-art international telescopes and high-performance computing clusters. Additional facilities are available through Compute Canada. The Astronomy & Astrophysics group will soon commission the Peebles Astrophysics Lab: a new space for astronomy trainees that will facilitate interactions and interdisciplinary collaborations. We are supported by research links with other University of Manitoba departments, through the recently launched Data Science Nexus (https://sci.umanitoba.ca/data-science-nexus/) which is housed in the Faculty of Science.

The City of Winnipeg (www.tourismwinnipeg.com), located where the Red and Assiniboine Rivers meet, is recognized for its vibrant, multicultural community and diverse culture. The city, with a growing population of more than 766,000, is home to internationally renowned festivals, galleries and museums, the historic Exchange District and The Forks, and ever-expanding research, education, and business sectors. From the Hudson Bay waters, across the farmland fields, to the pulse of the cities and towns, The Province of Manitoba’s (www.travelmanitoba.com) people and places – its 100,000 lakes, 92 provincial parks, winding river valleys and storied prairie skies – inspire.
The cost of living in Winnipeg is relatively low, housing is affordable, and Manitobans are renown for their friendliness. Winnipeg is home to the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, and the NHL’s Jets. Furthermore, the University of Manitoba Fort Garry campus houses the stadium that hosts the Winnipeg Blue Bombers football games. The region provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation in all seasons and has been identified by Time magazine as one of 2021’s “World’s Greatest Places”.

The University of Manitoba is committed to the principles of equity, diversity & inclusion and to promoting opportunities in hiring, promotion and tenure (where applicable) for systemically marginalized groups who have been excluded from full participation at the University and the larger community including Indigenous Peoples, women, racialized persons, persons with disabilities and those who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+ (Two Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, questioning, intersex, asexual and other diverse sexual identities). All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority.

If you require accommodation supports during the recruitment process, please contact UM.Accommodation@umanitoba.ca or 204-474-7195. Please note this contact information is for accommodation reasons only.

To apply, please provide the following documents:
• A cover letter (1 page maximum) including the names and contact information of at least three professional references.
• A CV including a publications list.
• A research statement (3 pages maximum) addressing the candidate’s interest in the position and proposed research program.
• A statement (1 page maximum) addressing past and/or proposed contributions to supervision of students, public outreach, teaching, professional service, and/or Equity/Diversity/Inclusion activities.

All documents should be merged as a single PDF and sent by email to samar.safi-harb@umanitoba.ca, with the Subject: Postdoctoral Position in Extreme Astrophysics. Review of applications will begin Dec 16, 2022 and will continue until the position is filled.
Application materials, including letters of reference, will be handled in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Please note that curricula vitae may be provided to participating members of the search process.

(this job ad can be also viewed on the AAS Job register: https://jobregister.aas.org/ad/692fa3c6)

The David A. Dunlap Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics in the Faculty of Arts and Science at the University of Toronto invites applications for a full-time tenure-stream position in the area of Astrophysics. The appointment will be at the rank of Assistant Professor, with an anticipated start date of July 1, 2023.

Applicants must have earned a PhD degree in Astronomy, Astrophysics, or a related area by the time of appointment, or shortly thereafter, with a demonstrated record of excellence in research and teaching.

We seek applicants in any area of Astrophysics whose research and teaching interests complement and enhance our existing departmental strengths. The successful candidate will be expected to establish and lead an innovative, externally funded research program; supervise research projects carried out by graduate and undergraduate students; teach undergraduate and postgraduate courses; and engage in university service activities.

Candidates must provide evidence of excellence in research, which can be demonstrated by the applicant’s cover letter, a record of publications in top-ranked and field relevant journals or forthcoming publications meeting high international standards, the submitted research statement, presentations at significant conferences, and strong endorsements from referees of high standing.

We seek candidates who perform innovative research that will advance our understanding of the Universe. In their application materials, the successful candidate must:

Provide a demonstrated record of innovative research;
Provide a strong research plan with a vision for how this can be achieved at the University of Toronto;
Demonstrate their capacity to prepare the leaders of the future in astrophysics by recruiting, supervising, training and mentoring research students, early-career researchers, and/or technical staff from a diverse range of backgrounds and levels of ability.

Evidence of excellence in teaching will be demonstrated by teaching accomplishments and the teaching dossier, including a teaching statement, sample course materials, and teaching evaluations or other evidence of performance in teaching-related activities submitted as part of the application, as well as strong endorsements by referees. Other teaching-related activities can include performance as a teaching assistant or course instructor, experience leading workshops or seminars, or student mentorship. The successful candidate for this position must demonstrate experience in or capacity for teaching effectively and communicating clearly to a diverse student body, in a way that meaningfully advances equity, inclusion, and accessibility.

Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

The University of Toronto offers the opportunity to teach, conduct research, and live in one of the most diverse cities in the world. The successful candidate will benefit from proximity to two other astronomy units based at the University: (1) The Dunlap Institute for Astronomy and Astrophysics, an endowed research institute dedicated to innovative technology, ground-breaking research, world-class training, and public engagement. (2) The Canadian Institute for Theoretical Astrophysics, a renowned National theory institute. University of Toronto astronomers have access to a wide range of observational facilities with guaranteed access to CFHT, Gemini, SDSS-V, LSST, JWST, ALMA, MWA and CHIME.

All qualified candidates are invited to apply by clicking on the link below. Applicants must submit:

a cover letter.
a current curriculum vitae including a full list of publications.
a research statement, and
a teaching dossier that includes a teaching statement, sample course materials, and teaching evaluations or evidence of performance in other teaching-related activities as listed above.

The Department is committed to an inclusive and flexible workplace. We encourage applications from qualified applicants of all sexual orientations and gender expressions, Black and racialized people, Indigenous peoples, and persons with disabilities. For additional information about the David A. Dunlap Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics please visit http://www.astro.utoronto.ca. Potential applicants are encouraged to contact astrochair@astro.utoronto.ca to ask questions about the position or to seek further information.

Candidates are expected to show evidence of a commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and the promotion of a respectful and collegial learning working environment demonstrated through the application materials.  The research and teaching statements must each address the applicant’s capacities to teach, train and support a diverse body of students/trainees and to meaningfully advance equity, inclusion, and accessibility in the relevant contexts, as per the expectations listed above. For information about the University’s approach to equity, diversity, and inclusion in research and innovation see  https://ediri.utoronto.ca/.

Submission guidelines can be found at: http://uoft.me/how-to-apply. Your CV and cover letter should be uploaded into the dedicated fields. Please combine additional application materials into one or two files in PDF or Word format.  If you have any questions about this position, please contact Professor Roberto Abraham at roberto.abraham@utoronto.ca.

Applicants must provide the name and contact information of three references. The University of Toronto’s recruiting tool will automatically solicit and collect letters of reference from each once an application is submitted (this happens overnight). Applicants remain responsible for ensuring that references submit letters (on letterhead, dated and signed) by the closing date.

All application materials, including reference letters, must be received by the closing date, January 4, 2023.
CLICK HERE TO APPLY: https://jobs.utoronto.ca/job-invite/26085/

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

Diversity Statement
The University of Toronto embraces Diversity and is building a culture of belonging that increases our capacity to effectively address and serve the interests of our global community. We strongly encourage applications from Indigenous Peoples, Black and racialized persons, women, persons with disabilities, and people of diverse sexual and gender identities. We value applicants who have demonstrated a commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and recognize that diverse perspectives, experiences, and expertise are essential to strengthening our academic mission.

As part of your application, you will be asked to complete a brief Diversity Survey. This survey is voluntary. Any information directly related to you is confidential and cannot be accessed by search committees or human resources staff. Results will be aggregated for institutional planning purposes. For more information, please see http://uoft.me/UP.

Accessibility Statement
The University strives to be an equitable and inclusive community, and proactively seeks to increase diversity among its community members. Our values regarding equity and diversity are linked with our unwavering commitment to excellence in the pursuit of our academic mission.

The University is committed to the principles of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). As such, we strive to make our recruitment, assessment and selection processes as accessible as possible and provide accommodations as required for applicants with disabilities.

If you require any accommodations at any point during the application and hiring process, please contact uoft.careers@utoronto.ca.

City: Penticton, BC or Victoria, BC
Organizational Unit: Herzberg Astronomy and Astrophysics
Classification: RO
Tenure: Term
Duration: This is a 2 year term position with the possibility of a 1 year extension
Language Requirements: English

Your Challenge
Help bring research to life and drive your career forward with the National Research Council of Canada (NRC), Canada’s largest research and technology organization.

We are looking for a Herzberg Instrument Science Fellow (Research Associate) to support our Herzberg Astronomy and Astrophysics Research Centre. The Fellow would be someone who shares our core values of Integrity, Excellence, Respect and Creativity, and who is motivated to become the Principal Investigator for next generation astronomical instruments and facilities.

The Fellow will be an active research astronomer/instrumentalist who is able to become a key interface between astronomers and instrumentation teams working on new astronomical instruments and facilities. They will work at NRC’s Herzberg Astronomy and Astrophysics Research Centre (NRC-HAA) within the Astronomy Technology Directorate (ATD; Science and Projects Team), that brings together leading astronomy researchers with engineers and technicians working on instrumentation design, development and integration.

NRC-HAA has a rare combination of staff involved in astronomy research, instrumentation design and development, engineering, data science and observatory support. This fellowship is intended to leverage this environment to help develop researchers who will become the leaders necessary to enable ambitious new instrumentation for cutting edge astronomy research in the coming decades.

The ATD is a leading developer of instrumentation for Canada’s current and future ground- and space-based telescopes at radio through to optical wavelengths (e.g., the Square Kilometer Array (SKA), the Attacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA), the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT), the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) and Gemini. Its multi-disciplinary team includes project managers, optical, electrical, mechanical and systems engineers and technicians, signal processing experts and astronomers. Current major activities include correlator upgrades and central signal processing architectures for the SKA, ALMA and the Next Generation Very Large Array (ngVLA), composite dish antenna designs for new observatories including ngVLA, development for the Canadian Hydrogen Intensity Mapping Experiment (CHIME) expansion and the Canadian Hydrogen Observatory and Radio-transient Detector (CHORD), participation in the development of optical/near infrared spectrographs for Gemini, and adaptive optics systems for TMT.

In addition to leadership and participation in facility class instrumentation, the ATD maintains a strategic research and development program specialising in radio receivers, radio dishes, signal processing, adaptive optics, and optical/near infrared instrumentation,. This includes the development of modest-scale pathfinder instruments and on-sky demonstrators. This is in addition to astronomical research activities undertaken by astronomers in the ATD and elsewhere in HAA, that spans exoplanets, star and planet formation, near field cosmology and resolved stellar populations, galaxy evolution, supermassive black holes, high redshift galaxies, time domain astronomy, survey astronomy, and other fields. Activities are split between the Dominion Radio Astrophysical Observatory in Penticton, which houses most of the radio expertise, and the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory in Victoria, which houses the millimeter-wave receiver group as well as most of the optical and near-infrared expertise.

The successful candidate will be a recent doctoral graduate in astrophysics or another closely related discipline who is highly motivated to engage in astronomical instrumentation and technology projects in the ATD. They will want to become the Principal Investigators for the next generation of astronomical instruments and facilities, and the ATD will provide them with the experience, support and professional development to help them develop into this role. Instrument Science Fellows will be expected to undertake research activities in astronomical instrumentation, or observational astronomy of relevance to the instrumentation that they support.

The successful candidate will:

* Engage with the instrumentation teams in the ATD and provide scientific support, advocacy and insight through close interactions with the technical teams and the science user community, under the mentorship of existing ATD instrument scientists. Scientific support could include the development of science cases, science requirements, survey planning, development of observing simulators, supporting the design, build and integration of instruments, on-sky testing and commissioning, science exploitation, etc.
* Participate in professional development activities focused on supporting their development into the next generation of Principal Investigators for astronomical instruments, including leadership, project management, systems engineering, communication, and grant writing.
* Conduct original research in astronomical instrumentation and/or observational astronomy, independently and in collaboration with NRC-HAA staff members.
* Contribute to the scientific exploitation of other NRC-HAA resources, particularly, but not limited to, the expertise of scientific and technical staff, and the astronomical facilities and infrastructure administered by NRC-HAA, including the observatories as well as the Canadian Astronomy Data Centre (CADC) and the instrumentation labs.
* Engage with the astronomical community to advance Herzberg Astronomy and Astrophysics mandate to provide astronomical facilities and services to Canadian researchers.

The Herzberg Instrument Science Fellowship is intended to provide flexibility given the applicant’s interests and personal circumstances. It may be held in either Penticton or Victoria, depending on the instrumentation interests of the applicant.

Screening Criteria
Education
As part of the RA Program you must have received your PhD in astronomy or astrophysics or a closely related discipline within the last 5 years or you expect to receive the degree within the next 6 months.

**Exception may be considered to recognise maternity/parental leave.

Experience
* Five years or less experience in astronomical instrumentation and/or observational astronomy research beyond the PhD.
* Experience in reducing and analysing/modelling astronomical data in one or more of the radio, centimeter, millimeter/sub-millimeter, infrared, optical and ultraviolet wavebands from ground- and/or space-based observatories or from astronomical data archives.
* Experience in the development of science cases and/or science requirements and/or survey requirements for astronomical facilities and instruments; experience in the development, design, build and integration of astronomical facilities and instruments; experience in the on-sky testing and/or commissioning of astronomical facilities and instruments.
* Experience in publishing international calibre research papers relating to astronomical instrumentation and/or observational astronomy in the refereed scientific literature.

Language Requirements
English

To apply, visit our website: https://recruitment-recrutement.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca/job/Victoria-Herzberg-Instrument-Science-Fellow-BC/564413517/